Licenses before you leave the driveway
Bring valid identification and any renewal details you already have. Michigan license rules can change by season and residency, so confirm what you need for the day you are fishing or hunting.
Sorting licenses the night before a dawn trip beats discovering a problem at the ramp.
Ask about bait for your target fish and season
Tell us whether you are planning spring river walleye, summer bay trolling, fall perch fishing, or a winter trip. Ask about the bait variety, size, quantity, price, and pickup time you need. Our bait selection includes minnows, crawlers, waxworms, and leaf worms. Call for current sizes, quantities, and prices.
Our seasonal guide below explains bait options for each kind of trip and links to Michigan DNR sources. It is a planning resource; current fishing rules and water conditions still need to be checked before departure.
- Minnows
- Crawlers
- Waxworms
- Leaf worms
Bait, ice, and the rest of the kit
Grab bait that matches today’s water, plus ice for the cooler. Soft drinks and water matter as much as anything else when the sun hits the bay.
Adults who want beer or a bottle for after the rods are put away can shop that at the same time. Never operate a boat under the influence.
- Fishing or hunting license access
- Bait for the day’s plan
- Ice, water, and snacks
- Drinks for after the water, with valid ID